13 Tips for Proactive Horse Hoof Care

Although summer can be conducive to more and better exercise for horses, summer weather is not always kind to the horse's hooves. In fact, unless hooves are checked and picked regularly, infection and breakdown of hooves can develop rapidly in warm, damp weather.

Checking horse's hoof

During summer months, the combination of warm weather and rain can lead to softening of horse hooves, which can cause more serious problems. New window.

During summer months, the combination of warm weather and rain can lead to softening of horse hooves, which can cause more serious problems.

When hooves weaken from being too damp, cracks may occur, allowing infection-causing microbes to move deeper into the horse’s foot. Preventing this not only saves an animal from pain and distress, but it also can save the owner’s checkbook.

Prompt treatment of hoof issues is vital. If left untreated, a mild infection can quickly progress into something much more serious.

What horse owners should look for:

The animal favoring one foot or seems like it is experiencing discomfort when walking.

Is the hoof overgrown?

Are there visible cracks, infection (including foul smell), or swelling?

According to Utah State University Extension Service, horse owners can be proactive when it comes to preventing hoof problems in their horses by doing the following:

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